February 17-19, 2020 Field & Range Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/17/2020
Approximately 17,728 were manufactured by Richardson & Overman of Philadelphia. It featured iron mountings with blued barrel and case hardened frame, walnut buttstock, and iron patchbox. Right side of action is stamped with the Richardson & Overman logo and serial number, along with patent date. The final 5,000 manufactured were chambered for the Spencer .56-52 cartridge; all the early and standard models were percussion. It was considered one of the most disliked breech loading carbines to see service during the Civil War. Regardless of their soiled reputation, the 6th and 8th Kentucky Cavalries were partially armed with Gallaghers. The largest quantity issued was for the 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry. 1,400 Gallaghers were sent to Major General William Rosecrans, Commander of the Army of the Cumberland. This carbine was also issued to the 10th Ohio, 9th Pennsylvania, and 4th Kentucky. The 3rd Indiana carried approximately 294 carbines into service at Cemetery Ridge during the Battle of Gettysburg. It was berated by both officers and men as a non-effective weapon. The carbine was also widely distributed by the 7th Iowa Cavalry. CONDITION: The barrel retains approximately 75% original blue finish mixing with patina and usual light handling marks. Both sides of frame retain generous areas of case colors. Patchbox and buttplate are basically patina. Initials "JM" are carved into stock on right side. Near mint bore with strong rifling. Very strong and clean condition. Any weapon of a type fought at Gettysburg is especially desirable. DB
Caliber/Bore
.50 Percussion